Klinsmann Crisis: U.S. Men flop against Costa Rica 4-0

Embarrassing. That about sums up the United States Men’s National Team performance.

The incompetent Jurgen Klinsmann side provided American fans with a lackluster performance that saw the Red, White, and Blue fall 4-0 to Costa Rica. A Joel Campbell brace and goals from Christian Bolanos and Johan Venegas sunk the U.S. in San Jose, Costa Rica on Tuesday night, leaving the Americans winless in their opening two matches of the Hex.

Klinsmann’s lineup and substitutions were both irrational and mind-boggling. Sporting KC center back Matt Besler played uncomfortably as a left back and the consistently underwhelming Timmy Chandler played at right back – although he plays right wing in Germany.

Poor performances from Jermaine Jones and John Brooks led to constant counter attacking situations for Costa Rica, who were unable to break the ice until the 44′ minute on a Venegas goal.

Although the United States played terribly, it is difficult to knock Costa Rica’s performance. The lower-rated side entered the match with emotion and passion, something that was noticeably lacking from the United States. Taking advantage of the constant USMNT mishaps, Costa Rica hopped on every chance they could. Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Christian Bolanos played a major role for his side. Assisting the first and scoring the second, the 32-year-old midfielder managed to run circles around Klinsmann’s backline. The first goal, by the way, was netted by Montreal Impact midfielder, Johan Venegas.

See the common theme?

Joel Campbell wrapped up the scoring with a brace late in the second half, all but putting down a hapless USMNT side.

Although this could have happened to any coach, the idea of MLS players ruining Klinsmann’s day is rich with irony based on his past comments about the league. Being torn apart by MLS players, pundits couldn’t help but blame the loss on Klinsmann’s harsh karma.

There would be some poetry in an MLS Player scoring the goal that sealed Klinsmann's fate…

This match is not the end for the United States. There is still a bundle of matches left for the United States in the Hex stage. Although the United States have dug themselves in a deep hole, it is up to them to climb out of that pit.